Winter Storm Disaster Loans And Grants Top $155,000
Summary of Winter Storm Recovery Assistance Since Dec. 4 Federal Disaster Declaration
Release Date: December 13, 2002
Release Number: 1445-10
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Anchorage, AK -- Less than two weeks after President Bush declared Kenai Peninsula Borough, Kodiak Borough and Chignik Bay area a federal disaster area from the Oct. 23 through Nov. 12 winter storms, disaster recovery assistance reached $157,14 according to federal and state officials.
"In the 10 days since the President's declaration, disaster recovery aid surpassed the $155,000 milestone which indicates we've been able to meet disaster-related needs of many Alaskans affected by the winter storms and flooding," said William Lokey, federal coordinating officer for the disaster. "We will continue to work with the State to keep the momentum going to make sure every effort is made to help individuals get back on their feet."
Types of programs available to individuals include funding for temporary housing and grants for serious needs and essential disaster-related expenses not met by other programs. Disaster assistance also includes low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration to homeowners, renters and owners of businesses of all sizes.
The following is a summary of disaster recovery assistance to date:
- $109,156 approved in housing assistance funds for rental or repairs
- $25,300 in U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest loans approved: 50 applications in process
- $22,658 approved for disaster-related needs not met by other programs
- 294 teleregistration calls received through FEMA's toll-free application line
- 101 home and property inspections completed. 141 requested
- 91 individuals have visited one of the three Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) opened to offer face-to-face assistance to applicants. The Ninilchik center, open Dec. 7-10, had 26 visitors. The Seward DRC, open Dec. 7-12, had 76 visitors. The Homer center, operating Dec.11-14, has 51 visitors to date.
- 9 public facility applicants applied for help through the public assistance infrastructure program and are working with FEMA/state teams to develop project work sheets.
Individuals in the declared area are encouraged to call and register for disaster assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) toll-free number 1-800-621-FEMA (3362); and TTY: 1-800-462-7585 for the hearing- or speech-impaired. The teleregistration line is available Mon. through Sat., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 15-Apr-2003 13:14:47